Charlottesville, Virginia Vacation Rentals
Explore 73 rental homes and villas in Charlottesville, Virginia for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Air Condition Homes, Best Affordable Homes and Great for Groups. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $91 per night with homes containing as many as 8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Charlottesville Overview
Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Charlottesville is a captivating city where history, culture, and the great outdoors converge to create an unforgettable experience. At the center of its charm is the University of Virginia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded by Thomas Jefferson. The university's iconic Rotunda and the surrounding Academical Village are not just architectural wonders but also a testament to the city's rich heritage.
Charlottesville is steeped in American history, with Monticello, the meticulously preserved estate of Thomas Jefferson, offering a window into the life and times of the third U.S. president. Just a stone's throw away, James Monroe's Highland further enriches the historical tapestry of the area.
The allure of Charlottesville extends to its breathtaking natural surroundings. Imagine waking up in a private home rental, complete with a swimming pool to enjoy on those warm Virginia days. Many of these homes offer the privacy and comfort of your own space, with the added bonus of being pet-friendly, so your furry friends can join in on the adventure.
For those who love the outdoors, the nearby Shenandoah National Park is a treasure trove of scenic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and the panoramic vistas of Skyline Drive. Closer to the city, the Rivanna Trail offers tranquil walks along the waterfront, highlighting Charlottesville's connection to nature.
The city's vibrant arts scene is on full display with venues like The Paramount Theater and The Jefferson Theater, where the curtains rise regularly on a variety of performances. The music scene is equally eclectic, catering to all tastes from classical aficionados to bluegrass fans.
Charlottesville's culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious, with a range of dining options from sophisticated farm-to-table eateries to the casual charm of local food trucks. The city's vineyards are a must-visit, offering tastings and tours that showcase the region's viticulture.
In essence, Charlottesville is a destination that offers the perfect blend of urban sophistication and small-town charm, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Whether you're lounging by the pool of your private rental home or exploring the historic and natural wonders, Charlottesville promises a personalized and memorable getaway.
Cultural Attractions in Charlottesville
Charlottesville, Virginia, is a captivating destination for travelers with a passion for arts, history, and local traditions. The city houses the University of Virginia Art Museum, which boasts an extensive collection of artworks from different eras. History buffs will find Monticello, the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson - the third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence - a must-visit.
Charlottesville is also known for its lively music scene. The city organizes numerous music festivals throughout the year including the Charlottesville Jazz Society’s annual Jazz Festival and Fridays After Five concert series that cater to diverse musical tastes.
The city's art scene is further enriched by numerous art galleries. The McGuffey Art Center in downtown offers rotating exhibits featuring local artists' works. There are also many independent galleries across the city showcasing various artistic styles.
For those keen on experiencing local customs and traditions, attending one of Charlottesville's annual events like the Virginia Film Festival or Historic Garden Week would offer an immersive experience.
Although Charlottesville's compact downtown area filled with shops and restaurants can be explored on foot, having a car would be advantageous for visiting attractions located outside this area such as Monticello or nearby vineyards. Public transportation options including buses and trolleys are also available for visitors' convenience.
Family friendly activities in Charlottesville
Charlottesville, Virginia, offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. The city's rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture provide diverse experiences for visitors.
Start your journey at the Virginia Discovery Museum. This interactive museum encourages children to explore and learn through play with exhibits focused on science, art, and discovery. Children can engage in activities like digging for fossils or exploring a mock cave system in the Kid's Town exhibit.
For those who enjoy winter sports, the Charlottesville Ice Park is an excellent choice. The park offers public skating sessions as well as lessons for beginners. It's a fun way to expend some energy while enjoying the ice.
Charlottesville also caters to outdoor enthusiasts with its numerous parks and trails. Ivy Creek Natural Area offers nature trails that meander through forests and fields. Alternatively, Pen Park features playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis courts, and even a golf course.
History buffs will appreciate Monticello - Thomas Jefferson’s plantation estate - which provides hands-on tours designed for families. Here children can gain insights into life in the 18th century while exploring this historic site.
Finally, Carter Mountain Orchard is worth a visit where you can pick apples in fall or peaches in summer depending on when you visit. The orchard also hosts various events throughout the year including summer concerts and fall festivals.
While Charlottesville does offer several family-friendly attractions such as the Virginia Discovery Museum, Charlottesville Ice Park, Ivy Creek Natural Area, Monticello estate and Carter Mountain Orchard; it may not be exclusively tailored towards young travelers compared to destinations specifically designed for kids. Nonetheless it presents an array of opportunities for family fun whether your interests lie in history or nature or if you're simply seeking an adventure.
Outdoor activities in Charlottesville
Charlottesville, Virginia, is indeed a paradise for those who appreciate the great outdoors and natural beauty. The city, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains' foothills, offers an abundance of outdoor activities and scenic landscapes.
The Rivanna Trail is a top choice for hiking enthusiasts. This trail spans 20 miles around the city, meandering through forests, residential areas, and along the Rivanna River. It's an ideal spot for hiking, jogging or simply taking a leisurely stroll.
For water sports aficionados, the James River provides ample opportunities for canoeing, kayaking or fishing. The river also offers picturesque views that are particularly breathtaking during sunrise and sunset.
Just a short drive from Charlottesville is Shenandoah National Park. This park encompasses over 200,000 acres of protected lands filled with cascading waterfalls, stunning vistas and tranquil wooded hollows. With over 500 miles of trails including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail, it's a perfect place for hiking and camping.
Monticello Mountain is another outdoor gem that nature lovers will adore. At its peak lies Thomas Jefferson's Monticello estate. The mountain features several walking trails that offer spectacular views of Charlottesville and beyond.
For bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, Ivy Creek Natural Area is a must-see destination. This 215-acre preserve boasts seven miles of trails where various bird species as well as deer and other wildlife can be spotted.
Lastly but by no means least is Carter Mountain Orchard which offers visitors a unique outdoor experience where they can pick their own apples while taking in panoramic views of Charlottesville and its surrounding countryside.
In conclusion, whether your interests lie in hiking or bird watching or you simply enjoy being surrounded by nature's beauty, Charlottesville has something to offer everyone.
Weather in Charlottesville
Charlottesville, Virginia is characterized by a humid subtropical climate and experiences four distinct seasons. The summer months, from June to August, are typically hot and humid with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit. These months also see the most rainfall, so carrying an umbrella or raincoat would be wise.
The winter months, from December to February, are generally cold with average high temperatures in the mid-40s and lows often dipping into the 20s. While snowfall does occur during this period, heavy snowfall is less common.
Spring and fall serve as transitional seasons and offer some of the most pleasant weather conditions. Springtime, from March to May, sees temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s. Fall, from September to November, offers similar conditions with beautiful foliage adding color to Charlottesville's landscapes.
The most popular time for visitors is during spring and fall when the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking in Shenandoah National Park or touring Monticello. Despite these being popular attractions, there are other attractions that can be enjoyed year-round in Charlottesville due to its charming seasonal variations.
Transportation in Charlottesville
Visitors to Charlottesville, Virginia, can arrive by air through the Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport. This regional airport offers flights from a selection of major cities across the United States. Alternatively, for those who appreciate scenic journeys, Amtrak provides rail services to Charlottesville from Washington D.C. and a few other northern cities.
Once in Charlottesville, there are multiple ways to navigate the city. The local public transportation system is operated by Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT), which offers bus services throughout the city and its surrounding areas. For those who prefer private transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
Cycling enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Charlottesville is bike-friendly with several bike lanes and trails throughout the city. There may be some locations offering bike rentals for visitors who wish to explore on two wheels.
Regarding walkability, downtown Charlottesville is quite pedestrian-friendly with numerous attractions, restaurants, shops and historic sites within walking distance of each other. However, due to some attractions being spread out across the city, having access to a car or using public transport might be necessary for visiting these sites.
In summary, whether you're arriving by plane or train and planning on moving around by bus, car or bike once there - navigating through Charlottesville should be relatively straightforward and convenient.